Three groups join forces during Proteins for the Pantry food drive

Volunteer Jeff Abrams of Middletown works at the Amazing Grace Food Pantry in Middletown in this file photo.

Volunteer Jeff Abrams of Middletown works at the Amazing Grace Food Pantry in Middletown in this file photo.

Photo: Arnold Gold — New Haven Register File Photo

Photo: Arnold Gold — New Haven Register File Photo

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Volunteer Jeff Abrams of Middletown works at the Amazing Grace Food Pantry in Middletown in this file photo.

Volunteer Jeff Abrams of Middletown works at the Amazing Grace Food Pantry in Middletown in this file photo.

Photo: Arnold Gold — New Haven Register File Photo

Three groups join forces during Proteins for the Pantry food drive

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MIDDLETOWN >> Three local organizations are joining forces on Saturday to collect much-needed food for patrons of the Amazing Grace food pantry.

During Proteins for the Pantry, Altrusa International of Central Connecticut, the Civitan Club of Middletown and Soroptimists of the Connecticut River Valley will host the event at the Stop & Shop grocery store on East Main Street from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

All three groups are based in Middletown.

“At the end of the summer for the last four years, the pantry has asked specifically for donations for proteins,” said Pat Jackowski, past president of both Altrusa and Civitan Club.

“The protein sources are down since people go on vacation and don’t think about donations.”

Some of the items the group is specifically hoping for are canned tuna, soups, pasta, pasta sauces, enriched cereals, any canned meats such as ham or chicken and beans.

“Any and all donations are appreciated,” Jackowski said. “If someone can’t do the shopping and they want to drop off money, we will do the shopping for them.”

According to Jackowski, 100 percent of the donations will be going to the soup kitchen run by the St. Vincent de Paul Place on Main Street.

“There will be club members at both entrances of Stop & Shop and have lists of suggested items along with items that are on sale,” Jackowski said. “We hope to exceed 250 pounds of food.”

According to Amazing Grace, which is located on Stack Street in the North End, the pantry assists almost 950 households every month and offers food free of charge.

Altrusa is an international organization dedicated to building stronger community through service, leadership and fellowship. Locally the chapter focuses on promoting literacy for all ages.

The Civitan Club has been active in Middletown since 1964 and provides community servicer with an emphasis on improving the lives of those living with disabilites.

The Soroptimists are part of an international organization for professional and community-minded women who work to improve the lives of women and girls.

People can also drop off food if they have anything at home or want to shop elsewhere. For additional information, e-mail Altrusa.CentralCT@gmail.com.